One of the many School Board meetings took place on Monday, November 30 regarding teacher salaries. This has been an ongoing dispute between the District 302 Board and Kaneland teachers.

A profound point made by the teachers during the public comments portion was that they strongly encourage the board to come to a fair and adequate salary. They claim, by doing so, the District will attract and keep quality teachers.

Most of the teachers at the meeting lined up to give a short speech during the first 30 minutes. All teachers showed a united front by stating that they were proud to be a Knight at the beginning of their comment. The main idea that teacher’s represented was that maintaining respect and value is very important for the student’s education.

“I’m worried that my younger girls will not have the same quality education as my older son,” teacher Vicki Moler said.

A representative for the Yorkville Teachers’ Union and friend of the Kaneland Staff showed his support by presenting his thoughts.

“Be smart. Do what’s right. It’s about the kids, they deserve a better education,” citizen Sean Collins said.

Many teachers agree that Kaneland schools have become a training ground for new teachers, who will then go elsewhere because of better salaries.

Spanish teacher Jason Lim said that his honest opinion is that if it wasn’t for the teacher’s loyalty and personal connection to Kaneland, many of them would have already left to teach at different schools.

After the staff and community members were done speaking, the board members closed the floor to public speaking. At this point, a majority of the teachers left the meeting.

Following the public forum was recognitions made to teachers that have organized a new club or activity to the district such as Rosemary Wisniewski who started the Latino American Student Organization with the funds from The Foundation.